Quick answer
Wash your quick-dry poncho in cold water on a gentle cycle with a mild liquid detergent, then hang it to dry. Avoid fabric softener, bleach, and high heat to preserve the fabric's wicking and quick-dry performance.
Why quick-dry fabric needs special care
Quick-dry ponchos like the Ala Wai Swim Team Performance poncho are made from lightweight, highly absorbent synthetic blends. These fabrics are engineered to wick moisture and dry fast, but they can be damaged by heat, harsh chemicals, and rough agitation.
Using the wrong detergent or dryer setting can break down the fibers, reduce absorbency, or cause the printed artwork to fade. A few simple adjustments will keep your poncho performing like new.
Step-by-step cleaning guide
- Check the care label and pre-treat stains: Look for any specific instructions on the tag. For mud or sunscreen stains, dab a small amount of mild liquid detergent onto the spot and let it sit for 5 minutes before washing. Never use bleach or stain removers with optical brighteners—they can discolor the print and weaken the fabric.
- Wash on a gentle cycle with cold water: Turn the poncho inside out to protect the graphic. Use a front-load or top-load machine without a center agitator. Select the gentle or delicate cycle with cold water and a small amount of liquid detergent. Skip fabric softener entirely—it coats the fibers and blocks moisture-wicking ability.
- Skip the dryer—hang to dry instead: Remove the poncho immediately after the cycle ends. Shake it out and hang it on a drying rack or clothesline in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. It will dry in a fraction of the time a cotton towel takes. High heat from a dryer can shrink the fabric and damage the elastic in the neck opening. If you must use a dryer, select the lowest no-heat or air-fluff setting.
- Store it dry and loosely folded: Once completely dry, fold the poncho loosely or roll it up. Avoid storing it in a damp gym bag or compression pouch for long periods. Storing a damp poncho can lead to mildew odors that are hard to remove from synthetic fibers.
About this poncho
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Ala Wai Swim Team Performance Quick-Dry Changing Poncho | Claymore Minds Co. x Slowtide: The Ala Wai Swim Team Performance Quick-Dry Changing Poncho is highly absorbent, lightweight, and quick to dry, with a bold graphic design rooted in Hawaiʻi's surf culture. The printed artwork and performance fibers both benefit from a gentle, low-heat care routine that prevents fading and maintains the fabric's quick-dry properties.
Ala Wai Swim Team Performance Quick-Dry Changing Poncho | Claymore Minds Co. x Slowtide